Top LTL Carriers in the U.S. (2025)

Mar 11

Written By cade L

Choosing the right LTL carrier can make or break your shipping operation. With dozens of options nationwide, it’s not always easy to know who provides the best mix of service, coverage, and cost. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top LTL carriers in the U.S. for 2025, explain their strengths, and show how working with a broker can help you pick the right one for each shipment.

🏆 National LTL Carriers

FedEx Freight

One of the largest LTL carriers in the U.S. with nationwide coverage.
Known for reliable transit times and strong technology for tracking.
Higher base rates, but strong for time-critical freight.

Estes Express Lines

Family-owned, 90+ years in business.
Extensive network with regional terminals nationwide.
Strong service levels and a reputation for damage-free deliveries.

R+L Carriers

Covers all 50 states, plus Canada, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean.
Competitive pricing and good service options for both LTL and volume freight.
Strong in long-haul lanes.

Saia LTL Freight

Fast-growing national carrier with extensive U.S. coverage.
Known for strong customer service and responsive communication.
A good balance of price and reliability.

🌎 Regional LTL Carriers

Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL)

Technically national now, but still maintains its regional strength in the East Coast.
Consistently ranked #1 for on-time and low claims.
Premium pricing, but unmatched reliability.

Dayton Freight (Midwest)

Strong regional carrier in the Midwest.
Great for fast, damage-free service on short- and mid-haul lanes.
High customer service reputation.

AAA Cooper Transportation (Southeast & Gulf)

Covers the Southeast and Gulf Coast region.
Known for flexibility and strong regional coverage.
Now part of Knight-Swift, giving it more national reach.

💡 Why Choosing the Right Carrier Matters

Not all carriers excel in every lane. A carrier that dominates the Midwest may not be cost-effective for West Coast shipping. Rates, service standards, and transit times all vary depending on the carrier’s terminal network and regional strength.

This is why many shippers work with a freight broker — instead of trying to manage multiple carrier relationships, a broker can compare carriers for every shipment and secure the best rate and service.

🤝 How X Logistics LLC Helps

At X Logistics LLC, we work directly with all the major national and regional LTL carriers. Our team compares rates across carriers, tracks every shipment from pickup to delivery, and provides the hands-on communication shippers need. By leveraging these partnerships, we’re able to help our customers save money, reduce claims, and keep freight moving on time.

✅ Final Takeaway

The top LTL carriers in the U.S. for 2025 — FedEx, Estes, R+L, Saia, Old Dominion, Dayton Freight, and AAA Cooper — each bring unique strengths. But the right choice depends on your freight, your lanes, and your budget.

👉 Ready to find the best carrier for your next shipment? Request a Quote Today.

cade L